The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a circular directing all Bar Associations within its jurisdiction to implement 30% reservation for women advocates in their governing or executive bodies, in line with directions of the Supreme Court.

The circular, issued on April 29, 2026 mandates that at least 30% of posts in Bar Association executive committees be reserved to ensure adequate representation of women advocates. The direction stems from the Supreme Court’s order dated April 16, 2026 in Deeksha N. Amruthesh v. State of Karnataka & Ors.

Importantly, the High Court has clarified that in cases where sufficient women candidates are not available or do not contest elections, the shortfall must be addressed through nominations. Such nominations are to be made by the Administrative Judge in consultation with the concerned District & Sessions Judge, elected office bearers, and senior-most women members of the Bar Association.

The circular further directs all Bar Associations, including those at district and tehsil levels, to take immediate steps for implementation and submit a compliance report within one week from the date of issuance.